Sophisticated harmony, velvet, and aromatic power

A symbol of elegance at the heart of Margaux, Château Palmer is a Third Grand Cru Classé of 1855, recognized for its balanced, sensual, and deep wines. The 66-hectare estate, passed down through the Johnston, Sichel, and Viaud families, is currently managed by Lloyd Jones Smith in collaboration with the technical team. Its refined signature, combined with a solid structure, makes it one of the most iconic châteaux of the appellation.

Exceptional Terroir & Grape Varieties

The vineyard rests on a mound of deep Günzian gravel, facing southwest, with a clay-limestone subsoil. The grape composition combines Cabernet Sauvignon (≈45%), Merlot (≈45%), and touches of Petit Verdot (≈8%) and Cabernet Franc (≈2%), planted at high density (≈8,500 vines/ha).

Demanding Viticulture

Parcel-based cultivation focused on balance and precision, exclusively manual harvesting, and drastic selection. The goal is to preserve aromatic freshness and tannic finesse. The estate has recently strengthened its sustainable approach with grassed vines, multifunctional hedges, and controlled biodiversity management.

Vinification & Aging

Parcel-based vinification, temperature-controlled maceration, gentle infusion work. Aging for 16 to 20 months in French oak barrels (≈60% new), alternating with vats and ovoid tanks, to support structure and elegance without masking the purity of the fruit.

Style & Iconic Cuvées

Château Palmer: deep color, aromas of ripe blackcurrant, mocha, dried flowers, sweet spices, and subtle minerals, enveloping palate, velvety tannins, beautiful saline tension, and long finish. Wine designed for aging 20 to 40 years.
Alter Ego de Palmer: second wine, more accessible, fresh, fruity, and racy, true to the Palmer style but for earlier tasting.

Production: 140,000 bottles;

Area: 52 ha;

Average vine age: 35 years;

Planting density: 10,000 vines/ha;

Maturity: within 5 to 25 years depending on the vintage;

Second wine: Alter Ego de Palmer;

Grape composition: 47% cabernet sauvignon, 47% merlot, 6% petit verdot;

Best vintages: 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2005, 2000, 1999, 1989, 1983, 1966, 1961, 1945, 1928, 1900.